Portland Trail Blazers | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/portland-trail-blazers
Latest news and features from theguardian.com, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Tue, 03 Mar 2015 21:36:50 GMT2015-03-03T21:36:50Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
Anthony Mason, New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets star, dies at 48http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/28/anthony-mason-former-knicks-player-dead-at-48
<p>Thirteen-year NBA veteran and rugged power forward played for New York from 1991 to 1996, then for the Charlotte Hornets until 2000 </p><p>Anthony Mason, a rugged power forward who was a defensive force in the NBA from the 1990s into the early 21st century, has died. He was 48.</p><p>New York Knicks spokesman Jonathan Supranowitz confirmed Mason’s death, which was first reported by the New York Daily News.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/28/anthony-mason-former-knicks-player-dead-at-48">Continue reading...</a>NBABasketballNew York KnicksCharlotte HornetsMiami HeatUS sportsSportUS newsNew YorkDenver NuggetsPortland Trail BlazersBrooklyn NetsSat, 28 Feb 2015 16:55:37 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/28/anthony-mason-former-knicks-player-dead-at-48Photograph: Ron Frehm/APAnthony Mason runs down court during an NBA game against the Washington Bullets in New York in December 1995.Photograph: Ron Frehm/APAnthony Mason runs down court during an NBA game against the Washington Bullets in New York in December 1995.Associated Press in New York2015-02-28T16:55:37ZSuns and Thunder revamp rosters in crazy NBA deadlinehttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/suns-and-thunder-revamp-rosters-in-crazy-nba-deadline
<p>Phoenix Suns trade Goran Dragic to the Miami Heat; Oklahoma City Thunder part with Reggie Jackson and Kendrick Perkins; Kevin Garnett returns to Minnesota<br></p><p>For most of Thursday afternoon, It was looking like the NBA trade deadline was going to disappoint. It looked possible that JaVale McGee was going to be the most well-known player to change teams. Then, just minutes before the 3pm EST window to make deals closed, absolute chaos broke out. A record 37 players were traded on Thursday. When the smoke settled, the Phoenix Suns had completely revamped their line-up, a Hall of Famer was set to return to the team that drafted him and the Oklahoma City Thunder finally ended the Kendrick Perkins Era.</p><p>It’s not entirely surprising that the Suns and Thunder were apparently scrambling to make deals until what was almost literally the last minute. The two teams were in the same situation: aiming to stay in contention for the eighth seed in the Western Conference while attempting to accommodate players who wanted out. The Suns and Thunder could not stand still and letting the deadline pass really wasn’t an option for either franchise.</p><p>Is my brother still on the Sixers?!?!</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/suns-and-thunder-revamp-rosters-in-crazy-nba-deadline">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsBasketballPhoenix SunsOklahoma City ThunderMiami HeatSportBoston CelticsPhiladelphia 76ersMilwaukee BucksMinnesota TimberwolvesBrooklyn NetsNew York KnicksWashington WizardsSacramento KingsUtah JazzNew Orleans PelicansDetroit PistonsDenver NuggetsPortland Trail BlazersHouston RocketsFri, 20 Feb 2015 01:43:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/suns-and-thunder-revamp-rosters-in-crazy-nba-deadlinePhotograph: Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesGoran Dragic, who the Phoenix Suns sent to the Miami Heat, might have been the most important player to move on Thursday’s record-setting NBA trade deadline.Photograph: Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesGoran Dragic, who the Phoenix Suns sent to the Miami Heat, might have been the most important player to move on Thursday’s record-setting NBA trade deadline.Hunter Felt2015-02-20T01:43:01ZJerome Kersey died from blood clot complicationhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/former-portland-trail-blazer-jerome-kersey-dies-at-52
<ul><li>Played had undergone minor surgery last week<br></li><li>Helped Portland reach two NBA Finals<br></li></ul><p>Jerome Kersey, the versatile small forward who helped the Portland Trail Blazers reach two NBA Finals and won a title with the San Antonio Spurs in 1999, died on Wednesday. He was 52.</p><p>The state medical examiner says Kersey died from a blood clot that traveled from his left calf to his lungs. Kersey had minor surgery on his knee last Friday.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/former-portland-trail-blazer-jerome-kersey-dies-at-52">Continue reading...</a>Portland Trail BlazersNBAUS sportsBasketballSportThu, 19 Feb 2015 20:10:16 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/19/former-portland-trail-blazer-jerome-kersey-dies-at-52Photograph: Jack Smith/APJerome Kersey (right) during his time with the Lakers in 1997.Photograph: Jack Smith/APJerome Kersey (right) during his time with the Lakers in 1997.Associated Press2015-02-19T20:10:16ZDoes Gregg Popovich owe his success to Tim Duncan?http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/11/does-gregg-popovich-owe-his-success-to-tim-duncan
<p>Atlanta Hawks beat the Golden State Warriors in a possible NBA Finals preview; All-Stars start falling out; Chris Paul accused of sexism; Anthony Davis makes his first three-pointer of the season count<br></p><p>There’s really two ways of looking at this current NBA season. We could look at how many questions we had during the preseason that have yet to be answered and be amazed that the All-Star break is almost upon us. Or we could look at the sheer number of storylines this season has produced and wonder how the heck we haven’t even reached the All-Star break yet. Time has gone much slower for some fanbases than others, we’re probably in year five or six of this NBA season in Minnesota.</p><p>&gt; Good game Haks (No <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/W?src=hash">#W</a> tonight)</p><p>The tech that I [got] right there was ridiculous. I don’t care what nobody says, I don’t care what she says; that’s terrible. There’s no way that can be a tech. We try to get the ball out fast every time down the court and when we did that she said, “uh-uh.” I said, “Why, uh-uh?” And she gave me a tech... That’s ridiculous… If that’s the case, this might not be for her.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/11/does-gregg-popovich-owe-his-success-to-tim-duncan">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsBasketballSportSan Antonio SpursAtlanta HawksGolden State WarriorsMemphis GrizzliesLos Angeles ClippersMiami HeatNew York KnicksNew Orleans PelicansOrlando MagicPortland Trail BlazersCleveland CavaliersSacramento KingsCharlotte HornetsMinnesota TimberwolvesWed, 11 Feb 2015 15:22:35 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/11/does-gregg-popovich-owe-his-success-to-tim-duncanPhotograph: Darron Cummings/APSan Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with two players who have played a major role in his 1,000 NBA wins: Tony Parker and Tim Duncan.Photograph: Darron Cummings/APSan Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks with two players who have played a major role in his 1,000 NBA wins: Tony Parker and Tim Duncan.Hunter Felt2015-02-11T15:22:35ZKevin Love's myriad problems at Cleveland Cavaliershttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/04/kevin-loves-myriad-problems-at-cleveland-cavaliers
<p>All-Star Game snubs Damian Lillard; Nobody loves Love; Houston Rockets will miss Dwight Howard; Rajon Rondo out indefinitely<br></p><p>The New England Patriots have won the Super Bowl. Spring Training is still a month away, as is March Madness. That means you now have no valid excuse for turning your attention to the NBA. Well, OK, other than being a Knicks or Lakers fan. Here’s this week’s biggest basketball stories.<br /></p><p>Hawks attendance, always a league joke, is higher than it’s been in five years, and nearing capacity levels. The team touts its increased merchandise sales as a sign of fans’ loyalty beyond just showing up. A demographic cross-section that cuts across age, race and gender now fills Philips Arena. A Hawks game is now a destination, not an obligation.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/04/kevin-loves-myriad-problems-at-cleveland-cavaliers">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsBasketballAtlanta HawksCleveland CavaliersNew Orleans PelicansOklahoma City ThunderHouston RocketsDallas MavericksSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersGolden State WarriorsMinnesota TimberwolvesSportMiami HeatChicago BullsSacramento KingsLos Angeles ClippersWed, 04 Feb 2015 15:24:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/feb/04/kevin-loves-myriad-problems-at-cleveland-cavaliersPhotograph: Mark Duncan/APKevin Love, left, and Hollis Thompson fight for a rebound.Photograph: Mark Duncan/APKevin Love, left, and Hollis Thompson fight for a rebound.Hunter Felt2015-02-04T15:24:00ZKlay Thompson is Steph Curry's equal, not his sidekickhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/28/klay-thompson-is-steph-currys-equal-not-his-sidekick
<p>A note on All-Star fan voting; LaMarcus Aldridge plays through injury; why you can’t count Kobe Bryant out; Hassan Whiteside improves his NBA2k15 rating the hard way<br></p><p>Yes, we know it’s the week before the Super Bowl, but that doesn’t mean the basketball season comes to a halt. This week’s NBA news is guaranteed to feature absolutely no talk about football deflation, no high school physics lectures involving air pressure or sophomoric puns on the word “balls.” You’re welcome.<br /></p><p>Nick Young on what the Lakers must do without Kobe: &quot;Pretty much just give me the ball and get out of the way.&quot;</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/28/klay-thompson-is-steph-currys-equal-not-his-sidekick">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsCleveland CavaliersLos Angeles LakersToronto RaptorsMiami HeatPortland Trail BlazersDetroit PistonsBasketballSportHouston RocketsCharlotte HornetsChicago BullsGolden State WarriorsMemphis GrizzliesAtlanta HawksLos Angeles ClippersOklahoma City ThunderNew York KnicksBrooklyn NetsWashington WizardsNew Orleans PelicansWed, 28 Jan 2015 15:27:59 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/28/klay-thompson-is-steph-currys-equal-not-his-sidekickPhotograph: Richard Mackson/USA Today SportsKobe Bryant is done for the season but his career is far from over.Photograph: Richard Mackson/USA Today SportsKobe Bryant is done for the season but his career is far from over.Hunter Felt2015-01-28T15:27:59ZChicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers are at crossroadshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/21/chicago-bulls-and-cleveland-cavaliers-are-at-crossroads
<p>Bucks and Knicks in London are a dud; Doc and Austin Rivers become NBA’s first father-son duo; Larry Sanders in trouble again; Atlanta Hawks revival comes complete with choir<br></p><p>While it’s still early in the NBA sea... Wait, what? OK, it’s come to our attention that it actually isn’t actually early anymore. In fact, we’re basically halfway through the regular season already. It still feels early though, doesn’t it? It feels like nothing at all is settled in the NBA right now besides the terribleness of the New York Knicks, and even they finally won a game this week.<br /></p><p>I’m in the process of working things out now to do as best for my psyche and my physical health going forward. There’s a lot of evaluating going on. There’s a lot of inside talk just to put myself in the best place for my health right now.<br /></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/21/chicago-bulls-and-cleveland-cavaliers-are-at-crossroads">Continue reading...</a>NBABasketballUS sportsCleveland CavaliersChicago BullsMilwaukee BucksNew York KnicksLos Angeles ClippersAtlanta HawksPortland Trail BlazersSportWed, 21 Jan 2015 14:08:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/21/chicago-bulls-and-cleveland-cavaliers-are-at-crossroadsPhotograph: Mark Duncan/APThe Cleveland Cavaliers’ Kyrie Irving drives past the Chicago Bulls’ Derrick Rose.Photograph: Mark Duncan/APThe Cleveland Cavaliers’ Kyrie Irving drives past the Chicago Bulls’ Derrick Rose.Hunter Felt2015-01-21T14:08:02ZThe NBA was right to suspend Kevin Garnett for headbutthttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/14/the-nba-was-right-to-suspend-kevin-garnett-for-headbutt
<p>Boston Celtics are having a fire sale; Pau Gasol has a career night; Detroit Pistons thrive without Josh Smith; Portland Trail Blazers fans fight hate through power of dance<br></p><p>Maybe the Eastern Conference isn’t that useless after all. This week’s top stories all come from the East: the good (the Detroit Pistons, no really), the bad (yet another fire sale) and the ugly (Kevin Garnett’s headbutt). Granted, this may be because “Western Conference: Still lots of really good teams” isn’t much of a headline.<br /></p><p>The C’s currently possess the rights to as many as 12 first-round picks in the next four drafts, including up to eight in the next two drafts. The final number of first-rounders that Boston will own is dependent upon conditions that are attached to many of the picks. Those conditions will also affect the number of second-round picks the Celtics will own over the next few drafts, but suffice to say, they own a lot of them.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/14/the-nba-was-right-to-suspend-kevin-garnett-for-headbutt">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsBasketballBrooklyn NetsHouston RocketsBoston CelticsMemphis GrizzliesPhoenix SunsNew Orleans PelicansCleveland CavaliersPortland Trail BlazersDetroit PistonsChicago BullsSportWed, 14 Jan 2015 15:32:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/jan/14/the-nba-was-right-to-suspend-kevin-garnett-for-headbuttPhotograph: Jason DeCrow/APBrooklyn Nets’ Kevin Garnett has to be restrained after an altercation with Houston Rockets’ Dwight Howard during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game.Photograph: Jason DeCrow/APBrooklyn Nets’ Kevin Garnett has to be restrained after an altercation with Houston Rockets’ Dwight Howard during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game.Hunter Felt2015-01-14T15:32:01ZAssessing the fallout from the JR Smith tradehttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jan/07/assessing-the-fallout-from-the-jr-smith-trade
<p>Oklahoma City Thunder receive Dion Waiters; the New York Knicks receive almost nothing; Tony Allen has a possession to forget; the NBA mourns Stuart Scott<br></p><p>The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a depressing disappointment so far this season. The Oklahoma City Thunder are struggling to get back into a crowded Western Conference playoff picture, their wafer-thin bench exposed with injuries to Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. The New York Knicks are one of the worst teams in the league and desperately need to shed salary. On Monday the three teams got together and decided...</p><p>RIP Stuart Scott. Was an honor to meet you and watch you on <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter">@SportsCenter</a> growing up. You will be missed.</p><p>Saddened by the passing of <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartScott">@StuartScott</a>. Grew up watching him on Sports Center. Condolences to his friends and family.</p><p>RIP Stuart Scott you inspired many and changed the way people looked at sports... Forever as cool as the other side of the pillow</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jan/07/assessing-the-fallout-from-the-jr-smith-trade">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsCleveland CavaliersBasketballLeBron JamesSportOklahoma City ThunderNew York KnicksBoston CelticsDallas MavericksPortland Trail BlazersPhiladelphia 76ersLos Angeles LakersMemphis GrizzliesDetroit PistonsHouston RocketsWed, 07 Jan 2015 15:43:42 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/jan/07/assessing-the-fallout-from-the-jr-smith-tradePhotograph: Kathy Willens/APJ.R. Smith is on the move, heading from the New York Knicks to the Cleveland Cavaliers.Photograph: Kathy Willens/APJ.R. Smith is on the move, heading from the New York Knicks to the Cleveland Cavaliers.Hunter Felt2015-01-07T15:43:42ZClippers can challenge dominant Spurs in dangerously strong Western Conferencehttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/28/spurs-competition-clippers-western-conference-nba
<p>With Donald Sterling out and the best point guard in the league, the Clippers should be a genuine force – and they’ll certainly enjoy the Lakers being so bad<br></p><ul><li><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/27/lebron-james-cleveland-cavaliers-eastern-conference-preview">Eastern Conference preview: LeBron can propel Cavs</a></li></ul><p>It’s opening day in the NBA, and today we preview the Western Conference! To be brutally honest, only a handful of teams in the West (sorry, Utah and Minnesota) wouldn’t have a shot at making the playoffs if they were in the weaker East. While it’s hard to bet against the Spurs returning to the finals, the competition this year should be even stronger.<br /></p><p>Dwight (Howard) and I are the cornerstones of the Rockets. The rest of the guys are role players or pieces that complete our team. We’ve lost some pieces and added some pieces. I think we’ll be fine next season.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/28/spurs-competition-clippers-western-conference-nba">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsBasketballSportSan Antonio SpursLos Angeles LakersLos Angeles ClippersNew Orleans PelicansSacramento KingsDenver NuggetsMemphis GrizzliesMinnesota TimberwolvesOklahoma City ThunderPhoenix SunsDallas MavericksHouston RocketsGolden State WarriorsUtah JazzPortland Trail BlazersTue, 28 Oct 2014 15:30:52 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/28/spurs-competition-clippers-western-conference-nbaPhotograph: Mark J Terrill/APClippers: strong.Photograph: Mark J Terrill/APClippers: strong.Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty ImagesLakers: reliant on Kobe.Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty ImagesLakers: reliant on Kobe.Photograph: Bob Donnan/USA Today SportsWill Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs repeat as World Champions?Photograph: Bob Donnan/USA Today SportsWill Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs repeat as World Champions?Hunter Felt2014-10-28T15:30:52ZNBA No1 draft pick Greg Oden arrested for 'punching woman in the face'http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/07/nba-no1-draft-pick-greg-oden-arrested-misdemeanour-battery
<p>• No1 2007 pick in jail after altercation with ex-girlfriend<br>• Police report: ‘I was wrong and I know what has to happen’</p><p>Police arrested the former No1 NBA draft pick Greg Oden on battery charges early on Thursday, alleging that he punched his ex-girlfriend in the face during a fight at his mother’s suburban Indianapolis home.</p><p>“I was wrong and I know what has to happen,” Oden said, according to a police report. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/07/nba-no1-draft-pick-greg-oden-arrested-misdemeanour-battery">Continue reading...</a>US newsIndianaNBAUS sportsSportBasketballMiami HeatPortland Trail BlazersCollege sportsUS crimeWorld newsThu, 07 Aug 2014 17:11:16 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/07/nba-no1-draft-pick-greg-oden-arrested-misdemeanour-batteryPhotograph: HANDOUT/REUTERSNBA player Greg Oden is pictured in an undated handout photo. Photograph: ReutersPhotograph: HANDOUT/REUTERSNBA player Greg Oden is pictured in an undated handout photo. Photograph: ReutersAgencies in Indianapolis2014-08-07T17:11:16ZThe Hunters: the alternative 2013-14 end-of-season NBA awards | Hunter Felthttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/jun/20/2013-14-end-of-season-nba-awards
<p>A not-necessarily-entirely-serious look back at the best and worst of the 2013-14 NBA season<br><br>• <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/jul/02/nba-end-of-season-awards">The 2012-13 Hunters</a></p><p>What? Too obvious? OK, so it's pretty easy to just name the team who just won the championship, especially if they happen to be <a href="http://regressing.deadspin.com/the-spurs-were-the-most-dominant-nba-finals-team-ever-1591414322/+kylenw">one of the most dominant teams in finals history</a>. </p><p>&quot;I brought a black guy to the game.&quot; -- Awesome sign by a Warriors fan. <a href="http://t.co/hJg58qBJZS">pic.twitter.com/hJg58qBJZS</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/jun/20/2013-14-end-of-season-nba-awards">Continue reading...</a>NBASportBasketballUS sportsMiami HeatSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersOklahoma City ThunderCleveland CavaliersHouston RocketsPhoenix SunsMilwaukee BucksChicago BullsIndiana PacersNew York KnicksBrooklyn NetsLos Angeles ClippersDallas MavericksBoston CelticsLos Angeles LakersPhiladelphia 76ersGolden State WarriorsNBA finalsFri, 20 Jun 2014 14:59:12 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/jun/20/2013-14-end-of-season-nba-awardsPhotograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsAs Garbo laughed … Popovich smiles. Sort of. Photo: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsAs Garbo laughed … Popovich smiles. Sort of. Photo: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsJun 18, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich waves to the fans during the NBA championship parade at San Antonio River Walk. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
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TopPic Photograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsJun 18, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich waves to the fans during the NBA championship parade at San Antonio River Walk. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
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TopPic Photograph: Soobum Im/USA Today SportsHunter Felt2014-06-20T14:59:12ZMiami Heat and San Antonio Spurs move closer to NBA Finals repeathttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/15/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-closer-nba-finals-repeat
<ul><li>Miami eliminate Brooklyn 4-1 to reach Eastern finals</li><li>San Antonio defeat Portland to advance to West finals</li><li>Heat and Spurs faced each other in 2013 NBA championship</li></ul><p>Miami and San Antonio both advanced to the NBA conference finals in contrasting fashion on Wednesday, with the Heat storming over the top of Brooklyn to pinch a narrow victory while the Spurs cruised past Portland.</p><p>Miami trailed almost the entire game and was eight points down with less than five minutes left but found a way to pull out a 96-94 win that clinched a 4-1 series victory and a place in the Eastern Conference finals for the fourth-straight year. The Heat will face either Indiana or Washington.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/15/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-closer-nba-finals-repeat">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportMiami HeatBrooklyn NetsSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersBasketballThu, 15 May 2014 13:05:32 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/15/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-closer-nba-finals-repeatPhotograph: Mike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesLeBron James celebrates the Miami Heat winning Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Brooklyn Nets at American Airlines Arena on May 14, 2014. Photograph: Mike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Mike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesLeBron James celebrates the Miami Heat winning Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Brooklyn Nets at American Airlines Arena on May 14, 2014. Photograph: Mike Ehrmann/Getty ImagesAP2014-05-15T13:05:32ZLeBron James' playoff best takes Miami closer to NBA Eastern Conference finalshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/13/lebron-james-playoff-best-takes-miami-closer-nba-eastern-conference-finals
<ul><li>James' 49 points gives Heat win over Brooklyn</li><li>Portland cut San Antonio's series lead to 3-1</li></ul><p>LeBron James equaled his playoff career high with 49 points and Chris Bosh made the tiebreaking 3-pointer with 57 seconds left as the Miami Heat beat the Brooklyn Nets 102-96 on Monday for a 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.</p><p>Later, Damian Lillard scored 25 points as the Portland Trail Blazers staved off elimination in the Western Conference semifinals with a 103-92 victory over the San Antonio Spurs.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/13/lebron-james-playoff-best-takes-miami-closer-nba-eastern-conference-finals">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersMiami HeatBrooklyn NetsTue, 13 May 2014 13:14:47 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/13/lebron-james-playoff-best-takes-miami-closer-nba-eastern-conference-finalsPhotograph: Anthony Gruppuso/USA Today SportsLeBron James led the Miami Heat to a 3-1 NBA playoffs series lead over the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center. Photograph: Anthony Gruppuso/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Anthony Gruppuso/USA Today SportsLeBron James led the Miami Heat to a 3-1 NBA playoffs series lead over the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center. Photograph: Anthony Gruppuso/USA Today SportsAP2014-05-13T13:14:47ZSan Antonio Spurs one win from NBA Western Conference finalshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/11/san-antonio-spurs-one-win-from-nba-western-conference-finals
<ul><li>Spurs win to lead Trail Blazers 3-0</li><li>Brooklyn victory closes Miami series to 2-1</li></ul><p>San Antonio put one foot into the NBA Western Conference finals win a 118-103 win at Portland on Saturday to take a 3-0 lead in their series, while Brooklyn avoided slipping to the same deficit by defeating Miami.</p><p>Tony Parker scored 29 points for the Spurs, who built a big early lead just as they had in the opening two games of the series by going 23 points up on the Trail Blazers in the first half, and controlled the game from there.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/11/san-antonio-spurs-one-win-from-nba-western-conference-finals">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportMiami HeatBrooklyn NetsSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersSun, 11 May 2014 14:28:12 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/11/san-antonio-spurs-one-win-from-nba-western-conference-finalsPhotograph: Rick Bowmer/APPortland Trail Blazers' Robin Lopez and San Antonio Spurs' Tim Duncan during Game 3 of a Western Conference semifinal playoff Saturday, May 10, 2014. Photograph: Rick Bowmer/APPhotograph: Rick Bowmer/APPortland Trail Blazers' Robin Lopez and San Antonio Spurs' Tim Duncan during Game 3 of a Western Conference semifinal playoff Saturday, May 10, 2014. Photograph: Rick Bowmer/APAP2014-05-11T14:28:12ZMiami Heat and San Antonio Spurs cruise to 2-0 NBA playoffs leadshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/09/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-2-0-nba-playoffs-leads
<ul><li>Miami beat Brooklyn 94-82</li><li>San Antonio defeat Portland 114-97</li></ul><p>Miami ground down Brooklyn and San Antonio was in control throughout to beat Portland as the two experienced outfits won on Thursday to take 2-0 leads in their NBA second-round playoff series.</p><p>Miami's LeBron James scored 22 points and Chris Bosh added 18 as the Heat beat Brooklyn 94-82, while San Antonio's players shared the scoring load in a 114-97 win over Portland.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/09/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-2-0-nba-playoffs-leads">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportMiami HeatSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersBrooklyn NetsFri, 09 May 2014 11:53:58 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/09/miami-heat-san-antonio-spurs-2-0-nba-playoffs-leadsPhotograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsMiami Heat's LeBron James is enthused during game two of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Brooklyn Nets at American Airlines Arena. Photograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsMiami Heat's LeBron James is enthused during game two of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs against the Brooklyn Nets at American Airlines Arena. Photograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsAP2014-05-09T11:53:58ZHeat and Spurs open NBA playoffs second round with victorieshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/07/heat-and-spurs-open-nba-playoffs-second-round-with-victories
<ul><li>Miami trounce Brooklyn in Game One</li><li>San Antonio open series with win over Portland</li></ul><p>Defending champion Miami and perennial power San Antonio asserted their claims to the NBA title with authoritative wins on Tuesday in the opening games of their NBA second-round playoff series.</p><p>Miami was too good for its bogey team Brooklyn, beating the Nets 107-86, while San Antonio led from start to finish in beating Portland 116-92.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/07/heat-and-spurs-open-nba-playoffs-second-round-with-victories">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportMiami HeatBrooklyn NetsSan Antonio SpursPortland Trail BlazersWed, 07 May 2014 13:42:49 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/07/heat-and-spurs-open-nba-playoffs-second-round-with-victoriesPhotograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsMiami Heat's LeBron James against the Brooklyn Nets in game one of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Photograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsPhotograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsMiami Heat's LeBron James against the Brooklyn Nets in game one of the second round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Photograph: Steve Mitchell/USA Today SportsAP2014-05-07T13:42:49ZThunder, Spurs and Pacers find route to NBA playoffs second round. Eventuallyhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/05/thunder-spurs-pacers-route-nba-playoffs-second-round-eventually
<p><b>NBA Playoffs second round preview</b>: Washington Wizards vs Indiana Pacers; Brooklyn Nets vs Miami Heat; Portland Trail Blazers vs San Antonio Spurs; LA Clippers vs OKC Thunder<br></p><p>The NBA world righted itself during the weekend. While at a certain point it seemed as if every series was going end in upset, balance has been restored – for the most part. The favorites advanced by surviving huge scares in series that ended up going much longer than expected. Even when predictions nailed <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2014/apr/18/nba-playoffs-miami-heat-spurs">seven out of the eight series winners beforehand</a>, it felt like they shouldn't have counted because they failed to imagine the paths the winning teams would take to get there.<br /></p><p>Here's a rundown of this year's first round of the NBA playoffs: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/nba-playoff-game-seven-clippers-warriors-grizzlies-thunder-hawks-pacers-mavericks-spurs-nets-raptors">five series went the full seven games</a>, another series (Portland/Houston) was a Damian Lillard miracle basket away from making it seven. There were countless overtime games, <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/It-is-a-1st-round-to-savor-in-the-NBA-and-NHL-5450707.php">nine games decided by two points or less</a> and 30 of the first 45 games were essentially undecided in the last minute of play. Even the Heat/Bobcats sweep was more competitive than anyone expected, even if that ultimately didn't help Charlotte.The second round has a nearly impossible task to live up to, but it'll be fun to see the conference semi-finals try.<br /></p><p>&quot;experts&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23dcRising&amp;src=hash">#dcRising</a> <a href="http://t.co/0QuS3bsHVl">pic.twitter.com/0QuS3bsHVl</a></p><p>This is the part where I remind everyone Portland is 14-7 vs Spurs since 2008, best record of anyone in NBA ...</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/05/thunder-spurs-pacers-route-nba-playoffs-second-round-eventually">Continue reading...</a>NBABasketballUS sportsSportMiami HeatMemphis GrizzliesWashington WizardsIndiana PacersLos Angeles ClippersPortland Trail BlazersBrooklyn NetsChicago BullsCharlotte HornetsSan Antonio SpursToronto RaptorsDallas MavericksMon, 05 May 2014 14:59:33 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/05/thunder-spurs-pacers-route-nba-playoffs-second-round-eventuallyPhotograph: STEVE DIPAOLA/EPAPortland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard hit the biggest shot of the NBA Playoffs so far to eliminate the Houston Rockets. Next up comes the San Antonio Spurs. Photograph: Steve Dipoala/EPAPhotograph: STEVE DIPAOLA/EPAPortland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard hit the biggest shot of the NBA Playoffs so far to eliminate the Houston Rockets. Next up comes the San Antonio Spurs. Photograph: Steve Dipoala/EPAHunter Felt2014-05-05T14:59:33ZNBA weekend of playoff Game Sevenshttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/nba-playoff-game-seven-clippers-warriors-grizzlies-thunder-hawks-pacers-mavericks-spurs-nets-raptors
<p>A record five NBA playoffs have reached Game Seven: Clippers vs Warriors; Grizzlies vs Thunder; Hawks vs Pacers; Mavericks vs Spurs; Nets vs Raptors<br></p><p>This weekend there will be a record-tying five Game 7s in the NBA Playoffs and, if it weren't for Damian Lillard, there would have been six. Up 98-96 on the Portland Trail Blazers, with only a fraction of a second left in regulation, the Houston Rockets looked like they were set to become the fifth straight team down 3-2 in their series to stave off elimination and force a Game 7. Instead Portland's Lillard, last year's Rookie of the Year who has already gathered a reputation as one of the game's most clutch players, hit <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/damian-lillard-trail-blazers-rockets-nba-playoffs-second-round">an astonishing three pointer at the buzzer to put up the Trail Blazers 99-98, ending the Houston Rockets season in dramatic fashion</a>.<br /></p><p>Roy Hibbert is 2nd player in NBA history with consecutive scoreless playoff games after making All-Star team that same season. <a href="https://twitter.com/EliasSports">@EliasSports</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/nba-playoff-game-seven-clippers-warriors-grizzlies-thunder-hawks-pacers-mavericks-spurs-nets-raptors">Continue reading...</a>NBABasketballSportUS sportsLos Angeles ClippersIndiana PacersGolden State WarriorsAtlanta HawksOklahoma City ThunderMemphis GrizzliesHouston RocketsPortland Trail BlazersSan Antonio SpursDallas MavericksBrooklyn NetsToronto RaptorsSat, 03 May 2014 14:09:16 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/nba-playoff-game-seven-clippers-warriors-grizzlies-thunder-hawks-pacers-mavericks-spurs-nets-raptorsPhotograph: Mark Humphrey/APMr. Unreliable? Kevin Durant was nothing of the sort during the Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 6 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Durant scored 36 points. Photograph: Mark Humphrey/APPhotograph: Mark Humphrey/APMr. Unreliable? Kevin Durant was nothing of the sort during the Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 6 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Durant scored 36 points. Photograph: Mark Humphrey/APHunter Felt2014-05-03T14:09:16ZDamian Lillard shoots Trail Blazers past Rockets to NBA playoffs second roundhttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/damian-lillard-trail-blazers-rockets-nba-playoffs-second-round
<ul><li>Buzzer beater gives Portland win over Houston</li><li>Brooklyn and Toronto head to Game Seven</li><li>Dallas rally sets up decider against San Antonio</li></ul><p>Portland's Damian Lillard hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Trail Blazers a stunning 99-98 win over Houston on Friday, clinching a 4-2 win in their playoff series and a place in the NBA Western Conference semifinals for the first time 14 years.</p><p>On a dramatic day in the playoffs, Dallas staged a fourth-quarter comeback to overrun Texan rival San Antonio and square their series at 3-3, while Brooklyn also won at home against Toronto to force a Game 7 in their series.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/damian-lillard-trail-blazers-rockets-nba-playoffs-second-round">Continue reading...</a>NBAUS sportsSportSan Antonio SpursDallas MavericksBrooklyn NetsToronto RaptorsPortland Trail BlazersHouston RocketsBasketballSat, 03 May 2014 12:53:27 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/03/damian-lillard-trail-blazers-rockets-nba-playoffs-second-roundPhotograph: Steve Dykes/Getty ImagesDamian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates with Robin Lopez after Lilliard hit a last second shot to win the game against the Houston Rockets during the 2014 NBA Playoffs at the Moda Center on May 2, 2014 in Portland, Oregon. Photograph: Steve Dykes/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Steve Dykes/Getty ImagesDamian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates with Robin Lopez after Lilliard hit a last second shot to win the game against the Houston Rockets during the 2014 NBA Playoffs at the Moda Center on May 2, 2014 in Portland, Oregon. Photograph: Steve Dykes/Getty ImagesAP2014-05-03T12:53:27Z